Jenna Ortega, Natalie Portman, and Charli xcx star together in The Gallerist, which just premiered at Sundance under director Cathy Yan.

A Sundance Lineup No One Saw Coming

January 25, 2026 — If there was one Sundance moment guaranteed to stop festivalgoers in their tracks, it was the premiere of The Gallerist. The film brings together an unexpected yet irresistible trio: Jenna Ortega, Natalie Portman, and Charli xcx—a combination that instantly ignited buzz across Sundance and social media alike.

The three stars stepped out together for the film’s premiere alongside director Cathy Yan, marking one of the festival’s most talked-about red carpet appearances.

Why The Gallerist Is Already a Must-Watch

While plot details are being kept closely guarded, The Gallerist is described as a sharp, contemporary story set within the high-stakes world of art, ambition, and power. With Cathy Yan at the helm—known for her bold visual style and subversive storytelling—the film promises a modern edge that matches its unconventional casting.

Industry insiders have already begun positioning the project as one of Sundance’s standout titles, fueled largely by the curiosity surrounding how such distinct creative voices intersect on screen.

A Trio That Defies Expectations

Jenna Ortega continues her streak as one of the most in-demand young actresses in Hollywood, known for bringing intensity and emotional precision to every role. Natalie Portman, an Oscar winner with decades of prestige performances behind her, adds gravitas and complexity to the ensemble.

Then there’s Charli xcx, whose presence marks a notable leap further into acting. Known for pushing boundaries in music and fashion, her casting signals that The Gallerist is uninterested in playing it safe. Together, the trio represents three generations of cultural influence—colliding in a way that feels both risky and electric.

Cathy Yan’s Vision Takes Shape

Cathy Yan’s involvement has only amplified anticipation. The director has built a reputation for crafting visually striking films that interrogate power structures and identity, often through a female-forward lens. Pairing her vision with this cast suggests a project that’s both stylish and thematically ambitious.

Festival attendees noted the confidence of the team as they posed together, hinting at a collaborative dynamic that translated beyond the red carpet.

Sundance Crowd Reaction

The premiere quickly became one of the most buzzed-about events of the festival. Social media lit up with reactions ranging from disbelief to outright excitement, with fans calling the casting “chaotic in the best way” and “cinema catnip.”

Photos of Ortega, Portman, and Charli xcx together spread rapidly online, reinforcing Sundance’s reputation as the place where unexpected collaborations become instant cultural moments.

What This Means Going Forward

With its high-profile cast and early festival attention, The Gallerist is already generating speculation about distribution deals, awards potential, and long-term impact. Films that debut at Sundance with this level of buzz often enjoy extended life well beyond the festival circuit.

For Ortega, Portman, and Charli xcx, the project represents a convergence of star power, credibility, and creative risk—exactly the kind of combination that keeps audiences paying attention.

The Verdict So Far

Jenna Ortega, Natalie Portman, and Charli xcx in the same movie may have sounded improbable—but after Sundance, it feels inevitable. With Cathy Yan guiding the story and The Gallerist now officially unveiled, the only reasonable response is the same one echoing across the internet:

Take our money.